CuO ZnO Research Articles

Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO/Cu<sub>2</sub>O and Co co-doped Ag-ZnO/Cu<sub>2</sub>O Nanoparticles with Possible Photovoltaic Applications

The Photovoltaics phenomenon is one of the major turning points in the battle against the depletion of fossil fuels. Sunlight is the main resource in photovoltaics, but there remains a quest to harvest it efficiently to generate electricity. This study is focused on designing basic, cost-effective prototype solar cells using ZnO/Cu2O nanoparticles (NPs) and Co(cobalt) co-doped Ag-ZnO/Cu2O NPs under normal university laboratory conditions. ITO-coated glass was used as the substrate of the solar cell and a modified low-temperature chemical bath deposition method was used for fabrication. Both ZnO and Cu2O NPs were synthesized by aqueous precipitation methods and the fabrication was performed successfully using ZnO and Cu2O NPs. However, the fabrication with Co co-doped Ag-ZnO and Cu2O NPs requires more research since the Co co-doped Ag-ZnO NPs were synthesized by solvothermal method, and it appeared as a fine powder which was not thick enough to hold onto the Cu2O layer. The UV-spectroscopic analysis confirmed the characteristic band of ZnO NPs at 367.5 nm, Cu2O NPs at 360 nm, and Co co-doped Ag-ZnO NPs at 378 nm. The FTIR spectrum showed sharp peaks at 460 cm-1 and 606 cm-1 for the corresponding Zn-O bond and Cu-O bond, respectively with a broad peak at 1329 cm-1 for Cu2O FTIR, due to the chemisorbed and/or physiosorbed H2O and CO2 molecules on the surface of the nanostructure. The EDX analysis showed the presence of slight carbon impurity in ZnO NPs which resulted in a deviated XRD pattern while Cu2O NPs showed the characteristic XRD pattern. The solar cell illuminated under three different lux conditions, had the characteristic J-V plot when measured through Gamry Potentiostat.

Nanostructural evolution by applying various fuels in combustion design of CuZnAl mixed-oxides over HZSM-5 used in one-step production of CH3–O–CH3

The influence of different fuels (urea, ethylene glycol and citric acid) in combustion-based design of nano-structured CuO–ZnO–Al2O3/HZSM-5 catalyst was investigated. The catalytic performance were evaluated in a single step production of dimethyl ether form syngas. The X-ray diffraction, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, Energy-dispersive x-ray, Temperature Programmed Reduction-H2, N2 Adsorption and Desorption isotherms and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy techniques were used to characterize physico-chemical properties of prepared nanocatalysts. The X-ray diffraction results clarified that application of citric acid increased relative crystallinity of Cu and Zn oxides existed in catalyst structure. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy results demonstrated that the zeolite structure was not destroyed after CuO–ZnO–Al2O3/HZSM-5 introduction. The Field emission scanning electron microscopy and Transmission electron microscopy images illustrated that the nanocatalyst synthesized with citric acid has the highest porosity and less population of particle agglomerations. The highest amount of surface area was obtained when citric acid was used as fuel. According to Temperature Programmed Reduction-H2 profiles, the reducibility of nanocatalyst synthesized with citric acid is higher than other samples. The activity of the fabricated nanocatalysts for syngas to Dimethyl ether process were tested at temperature and pressure range of 225–300 °C and 10–40 bar, respectively. Using citric acid as fuel led to achieve greater amount carbon monoxide conversion and Dimethyl ether yield. Furthermore, stability test represented that the activity of this nanocatalyst remained quite stable during 1060 min.

Experimental investigation of the influence of ZnO–CuO nanocomposites on interfacial tension, contact angle, and oil recovery by spontaneous imbibition in carbonate rocks

Researchers have recently focused on applying various nanoparticles/nanocomposites to improve the recovery factor from oil reservoirs. In this study, a new enhanced oil recovery agent, i.e., a ZnO–CuO (ZCO) nanocomposite, was synthesized, and its physicochemical properties are investigated by the scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, X-ray diffraction, and energy diffraction x-rays. The impact of ZCO and ZnO on interfacial tension, wettability change, and zeta potential tests has also been investigated under reservoir conditions. 0.1 weight percent (wt.%) of ZnO and ZCO in injection fluid, which minimizes contact angle and maximizes stability (i.e., minimum zeta potential), has been determined as the optimum concentration. The contact angle and zeta potential at this optimum concentration of ZnO and ZCO are 50.83°, 35.69° and −31.38, −35.65 mV, respectively. Then, the spontaneous imbibition using ZnO- and ZCO-based nanofluids with the optimum concentration is applied to monitor the recovery factor. The 22.5 day-long imbibition operation utilizing base fluid (without nanomaterials), ZnO, and ZCO retrieved 24.95%, 35.74%, and 52.01% of the oil, respectively. Overall, we concluded that injecting the ZCO-based nanofluids in carbonate porous media efficiently improves rocks and fluid parameters and enhances oil recovery.

NH3 gas-sensing application of Ag-doped ZnO–CuO nanocomposite synthesized via chemical route

NH3 gas-sensing application of Ag-doped ZnO–CuO nanocomposite synthesized via chemical route

Synthesis and characterization of spray deposited ZnO–CuO nano composite thin films for the detection of xylene

Synthesis and characterization of spray deposited ZnO–CuO nano composite thin films for the detection of xylene

Application of Ce2(WO4)3–ZnO–CuO nanocomposite as active photocatalyst for removal of ciprofloxacin from wastewater

In this study, the synthesis of Ce2(WO4)3/ZnO/CuO nanocomposite (NCs) was carried out using Co-precipitation method. The structural, morphological and spectral confirmation was achieved through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Differential reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The degradation efficiency for photocatalytic degradation of Ciprofloxacin (CF) and band gap value of prepared Ce2(WO4)3/ZnO/CuO nanocomposite was determined by using UV–Visible and DRS analysis. Band gap value for Ce2(WO4)3/ZnO/CuO was found to be 1.39 eV. Effects of different parameters such as contact time, pH, and effect of concentration of catalyst were investigated to optimize degradation conditions. This prepared nanocomposite was used for the degradation of CF and about 91 % degradation efficiency of CF has been achieved at pH 5 within 70 min by irradiation under sunlight and 60 mg concentration of photocatalyst. The EDTA and IPA scavenged photo-generated holes and hydroxyl ions respectively, the decrease in photocatalytic degradation indicates that holes and hydroxyl ions are reactive species in photocatalytic degradation of CF. The value of R2 = 0.99 confirms the validity of Pseudo first order and Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic model for the degradation of CF. These results showed a novel method for the preparation of nanocomposite and the efficient degradation of antibiotics and can be applied to industrial manufacture.

Distributed semiconductor heterojunctions of ZnO–Cu2O for ultraviolet photodetection

Semiconductor heterojunctions, because of their unique optoelectronic properties, have gained significant attention for integrated photonic devices. UV photodetectors based on semiconductor heterojunctions are promising due to their enhanced light absorption, efficient charge separation, and tunable electronic properties, which collectively lead to superior sensitivity and performance. An inter-band transition-based UV photodetector utilizing Cu2O/ZnO distributed heterojunctions has been demonstrated. We propose an integrated photonic structure based on semiconductor heterojunctions in the form of Cu2O–ZnO grating for ultraviolet photodetection yielding a low dark current and improved efficiency. The Cu2O–ZnO grating heterostructure, in comparison to individual planar heterojunction, boosts light-matter interaction enabling higher absorption and enhanced responsivity. The device depicts a responsivity of 0.7A/W at 360nm wavelength. The device exhibits a broadband absorption which remains good over a broad wavelength range from 250nm to 450nm. The reported UV photodetector may find applications in environmental monitoring, UV light communication, biomedical diagnostics, and industrial safety.

Green Synthesis of Nanomaterials with Phytochemicals for Treating Multidrug Resistant Bacteria

The Bacteria with Multidrug resistance and Extreme drug resistance are increasing at a rapid rate. Various methods have been employed to combat drug resistant bacteria. Major classes of antibiotics aren’t effective against these bacteria. Alternative methods have been studied in recent years. Nanoparticles are used against multidrug resistant bacteria; The green synthesized nanoparticles are more reliable due to more shelf life and lesser toxicity relative to chemically synthesized nanoparticles. Multi drug resistant E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from sewage samples. Green synthesized nanoparticles from various plants samples have been prepared with Zinc and Copper forming respective oxides with Neem, Nakara, Jatropha, Mango, Clove, Ginger, Cardamom, Cinnamon and Betel against multidrug resistant Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Isolated E. coli was susceptible to Fluoroquinolone and Augmentin whereas S. aureus was susceptible to vancomycin. Green synthesized nanoparticles had more antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus than chemically synthesized nanoparticles and plant extracts. Green synthesized Nakara CuO nano particles had inhibition zone of 31 ±0.6mm and 30 ±0.7mm for E. coli and S. aureus respectively, ZnO nano particles of Nakara had 25 ±0.6mm inhibition zone for E. coli and S. aureus. Green synthesized Jatropha CuO nano particles had inhibition zone of 26 ±0.5 and 26 ±0.4mm for E. coli and S. aureus. ZnO nano particles of Jatropha had 31±0.7mm and 30±0.7mm inhibition zone for E. coli and S. aureus respectively. The Scanning electron microscopy studies revealed 26nm Jatropha ZnO and 25nm Nakara CuO nanoparticles. Nano materials were found to be non-toxic in cell line studies. The present study concludes to study the impact of green synthesized nanoparticles as an alternative to antibiotics to combat multidrug resistant bacteria.

Bismuth doping for enhanced physical and electrochemical properties of CuO–ZnO thin films for complete degradation of Rifampicin and other antibiotics alongside organic dyes

In the current Study, undoped and bismuth doped CuO + ZnO coupled oxide thin films were meticulously deposited on glass substrates utilizing the spray pyrolysis technique. The effect of bismuth doping level in the structural, morphological, optical, electrical and electrochemical properties of these thin films were systematically investigated. X-ray diffraction patterns unequivocally confirmed the polycrystalline nature of the films, showcasing a combination of monoclinic CuO and hexagonal wurtzite ZnO phases. Furthermore, at a doping level of 8 %, the presence of the bismuth phase was observed, indicating its incorporation into the CuO–ZnO matrix. As the bismuth doping level increased, we observed a noticeable improvement in crystallinity and grain size. The distinctive characteristics of the developed thin films underscored a discernible enhancement in physical and electrochemical properties with the increase of bismuth doping level. Subsequently, The 8 % bismuth-doped CuO–ZnO thin films exhibit remarkable efficiency in degrading pharmaceutical compounds. Specifically, within a mere 2-h timeframe, these films demonstrate an exceptional degradation efficiency of 99 % towards Rifampicin, a widely used antibiotic. Moreover, their efficacy extends to other pharmaceutical pollutants, showcasing a significant degradation of 77 % for Ampicillin, an antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections, and an even more substantial degradation of 90 % for Rhodamine B, a prominent dye compound. This underscores the promising potential of 8 % bismuth-doped CuO–ZnO thin films in addressing environmental and health-related challenges associated with pharmaceutical contaminants.

Anticancer, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of CuO–ZnO bimetallic nanoparticles: green synthesised from Eryngium foetidum leaf extract

In the present study, green synthetic pathway was adapted to synthesize CuO–ZnO bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) using Eryngium foetidum leaf extract and their anti-cancer activity against MCF7 breast cancer cell lines, anti-microbial activity and in vitro anti-oxidant activity were evaluated. Various bio-active compounds present in leaf extract were responsible for the reduction of CuO–ZnO NPs from respective Cu2+ and Zn2+ metal precursors. In the present study, the involvement of bio-active compounds present in E. foetidum extract before and after green synthesis of BNPs were evaluated for the first time. Rod-shaped and spherical structural morphology of synthesized BNPs were revealed by using FESEM, TEM, and XRD analysis with particle size ranged from 7 to 23 nm with an average size of 16.49 nm. The distribution of Cu and Zn were confirmed by elemental mapping. The green synthesized CuO–ZnO NPs showed significant cytotoxic effect with the inhibition rate 89.20 ± 0.03% at concentration of 500 μg/mL. Again, good antioxidant activity with IC50; 0.253 mg/mL and antimicrobial activity of BNPs were also evaluated with the increasing order of MIC; E. coli (7.81 μg/mL) < B. subtilis (62.5 μg/mL) < S. aureus (31.25 μg/mL).

Dielectric properties, relaxation time and conduction behavior of MoO3 doped V2O5–ZnO–CuO glassy semiconducting system

Dielectric properties, relaxation time and conduction behavior of MoO3 doped V2O5–ZnO–CuO glassy semiconducting system

Investigation of the potential of zinc oxide-copper oxide nanocomposites as shielding against gamma ray, physical, and structural properties

The mass attenuation coefficient (μ/ρ) is examined in the experimental and theoretical way for five concentrations of ZnO–CuO nanocomposites. These samples have been synthesized by the Co-precipitation method. XRD investigation demonstrated an improvement in crystallite size by examining structure factors in a range (11.5–26) nm. The mass attenuation coefficient (μ/ρ) was measured experimentally at gamma-ray energies of radioisotopes 133Ba (356) keV, 22Na (511 and 1275) keV, 137Cs (662) keV, and 60Co (1173 and 1333) keV using narrow beam geometry NaI(Tl) detector. The samples were subjected to theoretical study using the Phy-X/PSD program for comparison with the experimental results. Total atomic cross sections (σt,a), electronic cross sections (σt,e), and effective atomic number (Zeff) were calculated using the obtained μ/ρ values. The findings demonstrate that there is generally good agreement between theoretical and experimental calculations, which supports the suitability of ZnO–CuO nanocomposites for gamma radiation shielding.

Aqueous synthesis of bare and Ag incorporated ZnO, CuO and ZnO–CuO nanomaterials with enhanced catalytic potential

The present work demonstrates a low-cost, single-step route for synthesizing ZnO, CuO, and ZnO–CuO nanomaterials using oxalic acid as a precipitating agent, avoiding using other surfactants. The current research also demonstrates the chemical reduction method for incorporating Ag nanoparticles onto the surface of the synthesized metal oxide nanostructures using sodium borohydride as the reductant. X-ray diffraction studies reveal the phase purity and crystallinity of the nanoparticles, while X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy characterizes the chemical states of surface elements. UV–vis spectra of the samples disclose the modifications shaped by Ag nanoparticles in the absorption characteristics and energy band gap of ZnO, CuO, and ZnO–CuO nanomaterials. The catalytic potentials of the synthesized materials are tested by monitoring degradation reactions of hazardous organic pollutants, including methylene blue and methyl orange, within a few minutes. The significant finding of the present study emphasizes the incorporation of Ag nanoparticles to ZnO–CuO nanocomposite and the use of sodium borohydride in photocatalysis effectively to enhance the rates of degradation of pollutant dyes without the use of intense radiation or unique lamps by initiating a three-stage electron transfer mechanism.

Comprehensive study on the physical properties of CuO-ZnO thin films: Insights into solar cell simulation

Metal oxide semiconductors have long been utilized in various optoelectronic applications, including solar cells, photocatalysis, and Schottky diodes. However, these materials often encounter challenges, prompting the exploration of alternative thin-film structures composed of non-toxic and cost-effective materials. One such promising system is the Coupled Oxide Systems (COS), exemplified by CuO-ZnO (CZO). Despite the potential of COS, comprehensive studies on their synthesis and optimization remain limited. Here, we investigate the physical and optical properties of CZO thin films, confirming successful synthesis and highlighting their potential as alternatives to conventional materials like CIGS and CdTe. In the second part, we explore a novel solar cell structure, FTO/ZnO/X/CuO-ZnO/Mo, with various buffer layer options (CdS, ZnS, Zn0.38Ge0.62O, SnS2, and [Al0.025Ga0.975]2O3). Our results reveal that the solar cell with CdS as the buffer layer exhibits the highest efficiency. This work not only summarizes the fundamental principles governing the optoelectronic properties of materials but also elucidates critical strategies for fabricating high-efficiency solar cells. Furthermore, we have conducted a comparative analysis involving 70 different solar cell structures. Additionally, we discuss potential strategies for the next generation of solar cells to further enhance power conversion efficiency (PCE).

Carica Papaya leaf-infused metal oxide nanocomposite: a green approach towards water treatment and antibacterial applications

This study successfully synthesized ZnO–CuO nanocomposite using the hydrothermal method with Carica papaya leaf extract. The incorporation of the leaf extract significantly enhanced the nanocomposite properties, a novel approach in scientific research. Characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Fourier Transmission Infrared spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis, confirmed a cubic crystal structure with an average size of 22.37 nm. The Fourier Transmission Infrared spectrum revealed distinctive vibrations at 627, 661, and 751 cm−1 corresponding to ZnO–CuO nanocomposite corresponding to stretching and vibration modes. SEM images confirmed a cubic-like and irregular structure. The nanocomposite exhibited outstanding photocatalytic activity, degrading methylene blue dye by 96.73% within 120 min under visible light. Additionally, they showed significant antimicrobial activity, inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus (20 mm) and Klebsiella pneumonia (17 mm). The results highlight the efficiency of Carica papaya leaf-derived ZnO–CuO nanocomposite for environmental and health challenges.Graphical abstract

Investigation of Adsorption Optimization, Kinetic and Isotherm Behaviors of 60Co and 152+154Eu Radioisotopes from Nuclear Radioactive Wastewater onto a Novel Co0.5Ni0.5O–Co2Mo3O8–CuO–ZnO Perovskite Metal Oxides Nanosorbent

Investigation of Adsorption Optimization, Kinetic and Isotherm Behaviors of 60Co and 152+154Eu Radioisotopes from Nuclear Radioactive Wastewater onto a Novel Co0.5Ni0.5O–Co2Mo3O8–CuO–ZnO Perovskite Metal Oxides Nanosorbent

A facile superlithiophilic 3D host with a transition metal oxide heterostructure for ultrastable zero-volume-expansion lithium metal anodes

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are widely recognized as the candidate for next-generation energy devices due to their unprecedented capacity and low electrochemical potential. Nonetheless, their practical implementation has been hindered by the dendrite formation and unstable solid electrolyte interface (SEI). In this study, we introduce a novel approach involving the in-situ growth of a ZnO–CuO heterostructure within a crack shield construction on a three-dimensional (3D) copper foam host. Computational COMSOL simulations reveal remarkable improvements in homogenizing lithium ion flux subsequent to decoration. Through galvanostatic measurements, the Li@ZnO-CuO-CF electrode exhibits an exceptionally low 0.2 V hysteresis, no volume expansion and uniform lithium deposition in symmetry cells under a 50 mA cm−2 current density. Furthermore, the electrode retains 95.4 % initial capacity after 600 cycles at 0.5C and 85.5 % initial capacity after 220 cycles at 1 C when coupled with a LiFePO₄ (LFP) cathode. This work sheds light on the facile fabrication of practical Li metal anodes for high-energy-density LMBs.

Efficient hydrogen production via hydrolysis of NaBH4 by the Co/Co3O4–Cu2O–ZnO catalyst prepared using mixed metal oxides as support material

Efficient hydrogen production via hydrolysis of NaBH4 by the Co/Co3O4–Cu2O–ZnO catalyst prepared using mixed metal oxides as support material

Enhancing structural, optical and dielectric properties of CuO–ZnO nanocomposites through controlled CuO and ZnO concentration adjustments

Enhancing structural, optical and dielectric properties of CuO–ZnO nanocomposites through controlled CuO and ZnO concentration adjustments

Visible-light responsive CuO-ZnO nanostructure synthesized using Muntingia calabura extract for efficient H2O2 evolution and organic pollutant degradation

In this study, ZnO-CuO heterostructures were synthesized via a green approach using Muntingia calabura leaf extract with insights into the precursor ratio for enhanced photocatalytic performance. The synthesized materials were characterized by modern analytic methods, including X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry, which elucidated the presence of CuO nanospheres and ZnO semi-cuboids. Thanks to a lower bandgap of 2.24 eV compared to pristine ZnO (2.82 eV), better visible light absorption, and longer charge lifetime, the optimal ZC16 sample, corresponding to a Cu:Zn ratio of 1:16, achieved a hydrogen peroxide production of 350.23 μM under visible light that was further increased to 478.98 μM with oxygen aeration. In addition, ZC16 also demonstrated excellent photodegradation performance towards malachite green (95.82 %) and tetracycline (97.78 %). Disclosure into the photocatalytic mechanism of both processes revealed the significant roles of active radicals, which have proven the environmentally friendly and cost-efficient synthesis pathway of ZnO-CuO heterostructures for environmental remediation and clean energy applications.